Introduction to Aging and the Life Course

This introductory course provides an overview of research and knowledge in human aging. This course builds a framework for understanding the biopsychosocial aspects of human aging and the characteristics of older adults in the world today. The survey course looks at the latest findings across many disciplines that study global aging (e.g., psychology, sociology, political science, public health, social work, nursing). For example, it explores a number of variables that are important to human aging such as personal health and well-being, social support, and race and cultural contributions to the life course. This course also covers the basic aspects of planning and delivering health and social services for older adults.